Johnson 3 HP kicker cooling system

[beeteejr]

I've tried getting an answer at the iboats.com website but so far, no luck. I'll try here since a lot of you have kickers.

I have a new to me 1990 Johnson 3HP kicker. It runs well but I don't see any clear evidence of the impeller moving water through the cooling system. A small amount comes out of 8 small holes below the lower pivot point but there's no clear pee hole with water coming out. Any of you have experience with this motor or a similar one ?

Thanks,
Bill

 

[Sunbird22358]

I am basically familiar with that outboard (not as much as my 2001 4hp, but have looked at one and have the 1990 brochure) and as far as I know... Johnson did not put a "telltale" outlet on that motor. If there is water spraying out of the exhaust-relief holes just below the lower pivot (and assuming those holes are above the water level?) then it is pretty sure that water is being pumped through the powerhead by the impeller. On my 4hp Johnson the telltale is located on the lower side of the powerhead and is basically a flow of water that spills out of 2 holes, no real pressure........ and not a lot of volume.
Having said that though, if it has been a while since the last time that the waterpump impeller was checked/replaced, it would not be a bad idea to replace it as preventive maintainence. The parts kit will be around $30-40 if you do it yourself (get a good repair manual, Clymers it one) or about $100-150 if you have a mechanic do it at your local Johnson/Evinrude service shop. I replaced the waterpump/impeller on my 4hp (same motor as yours, just newer, but used exact same parts) a few years ago, it was not hard..... although it is a bit tricky getting the lower-unit back onto the motor (especially with a long-shaft like I have) You almost need 3 hands with incredibly skinny fingers! But, for me it was worth it!

It used to be recommended to replace (or at least inspect) the impeller every year, and inspecting it is a good idea...... but I really am not sure that mine really needed replacing (even after 8 seasons), but as long as I had it apart!!

 

[beeteejr]

Thanks again Sunbird. I took it out to the lake today and just ran the kicker for about an hour. It ran OK and there was a decent supply of water coming out of the holes below the lower pivot point. Runs a little rough so I may go ahead and get a carb. kit and throw it in. A new impeller is probably in order as well and I'll get do that as well. Should have my mainsail in about 2 weeks and I'll be ready to go.

Bill